SURVIVOR GUIDE for SOLE PARENTS

Transcription

SURVIVOR GUIDE
for
SOLE PARENTS
(Northern Beaches Area)
See also our Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/SoleParentSupportGroup?skip_nax_wizard=true
©
Sole Parents Project Team
May 2013
2
Table of contents
Who we are ... ........................................................................................................................................................ 3
Survival story – 'I'm not happy, you're not happy, we are separated' .............................................................. 4
Crisis support ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
The Salvation Army, Manly.................................................................................................................. 6
Lifeline Northern Beaches ................................................................................................................... 6
Manly Community Centre .................................................................................................................... 7
St Vincent de Paul Society .................................................................................................................. 7
Survival story – 'My time of hell' .......................................................................................................................... 8
Free meal services ................................................................................................................................................ 8
Survival story – 'I wasn't drowning and I wasn't swimming, just treading water!' .......................................... 9
Medical & dental services (all bulk-billed) ........................................................................................................ 10
Specialist Medicare services available............................................................................................. 10
Dee Why Family Medical Centre ....................................................................................................... 10
Queenscliff Community Health Centre ............................................................................................. 11
Mona Vale Hospital Adult Dental Clinic............................................................................................ 11
Dee Why Child Dental Clinic ............................................................................................................. 11
Survival story – Candy’s Story .......................................................................................................................... 12
Further education................................................................................................................................................ 13
TAFE Programs for Women .............................................................................................................. 13
Jobs, Education and Training Scheme (JET) .................................................................................. 13
TAFE Single & Teenage Parents' Program ...................................................................................... 14
Student Assistance Scheme (SAS) .................................................................................................. 14
Survival story – Angel in my corner .................................................................................................................. 15
Housing services ................................................................................................................................................ 17
Homeless Persons Helpline .............................................................................................................. 17
Manly Warringah Women’s Resource Centre Ltd ........................................................................... 17
The Burdekin Association Inc ........................................................................................................... 17
Housing NSW ..................................................................................................................................... 17
Survival story – 'You ain't going anywhere, you bloody bitch!' ...................................................................... 18
Legal services ..................................................................................................................................................... 19
Legal Aid NSW.................................................................................................................................... 19
Legal Aid NSW, Manly........................................................................................................................ 19
Law Society of NSW ........................................................................................................................... 19
Women's Legal Services NSW .......................................................................................................... 20
Warringah Community Legal Service ............................................................................................... 20
Women’s Family Law Support Service............................................................................................. 21
Domestic Violence Line ..................................................................................................................... 21
Dee Why Police .................................................................................................................................. 21
Survival story - A Father's Story ........................................................................................................................ 22
Social activities ................................................................................................................................................... 23
Harbord Diggers ................................................................................................................................. 23
Dee Why RSL ...................................................................................................................................... 23
Water Skills for Life Inc (Collaroy Turtles Water Safety Swim Program) ...................................... 23
Warringah Mall Library ...................................................................................................................... 24
Warringah Mall ................................................................................................................................... 24
Mainly Music ....................................................................................................................................... 24
Kimbriki Resource Recovery Centre and Eco House and Garden ................................................ 25
David Jones, City Store – Christmas festivities .............................................................................. 25
Survival story – When I was 17, I fell pregnant with my daughter .................................................................. 26
©
May 2013
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Support networks................................................................................................................................................ 28
SMS Lighthouse ................................................................................................................................. 28
Northern Beaches Family Relationship Centre ............................................................................... 28
Relationships Australia ..................................................................................................................... 28
Pregnancy Help Manly Warringah Inc .............................................................................................. 29
The Link Community Food Care Program ....................................................................................... 29
Manly Warringah Pittwater Family Support Service ....................................................................... 30
Bump ................................................................................................................................................... 30
Dalwood Children's Services ............................................................................................................ 30
Dial-A-Mum ......................................................................................................................................... 30
Brookvale Family Centre ................................................................................................................... 31
KYDS ................................................................................................................................................... 31
Dads in Distress Support Service ..................................................................................................... 31
Be Centre ............................................................................................................................................ 32
Manly Council Adolescent & Family Counselling Service.............................................................. 32
Community Builders Pittwater – Relationships Australia .............................................................. 32
Survival story – 'All the Single Parents' ............................................................................................................ 33
Financial help ...................................................................................................................................................... 35
Centrepay............................................................................................................................................ 35
Advance Payment Scheme................................................................................................................ 35
No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS) ....................................................................................................... 35
Dress for Success Sydney ................................................................................................................ 36
WorkVentures Ltd .............................................................................................................................. 36
TAFE success story ............................................................................................................................................ 37
Benefits available from Department of Human Resources (formerly Centrelink) ......................................... 38
Types of payments (as at March 2013) ............................................................................................. 38
References ........................................................................................................................................................... 40
Suggested reading .............................................................................................................................................. 40
“There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved.”
George Sand, 1804 – 1876
Who we are ...
We are a group of Diploma-level students studying community services who are or have been sole parents.
As a community development project, we recognised there was a need to compile this detailed Guide to help other sole parents
at and after the point of separation, and to save them the trouble we went through at this traumatic time.
We hope you find our work a valuable tool to help you and your family. We wish you every success and happiness. Happy
reading!
We take this opportunity to thank:
•
Northern Beaches TAFE and, in particular, Merelyn Langley, the co-ordinator of the TAFE Single & Teenage Parents'
Program for her support and mentoring of the Sole Parents Project Team in making our Guide a reality; and
•
Warringah Council who provided funding for 100 copies of this Guide to be printed for distribution to the community.
With our very best wishes,
©
May 2013
4
Survival story – 'I'm not happy, you're not
happy, we are separated'
1
My name is Bree. I became a sole parent in 2008 when my baby was ten months old. I got told 'I'm
not happy, you're not happy, we are separated'. I wasn't given any opportunity to work on it, or
marriage counselling, or have another go. My ex-husband made the decision and I had to live by it.
That day, I went into shock. All of my fears became realities. I came from a broken home and I never
wanted that for my child. To this day (five years later), I can only guess what went wrong. I was
never told exactly and that's very frustrating – I wasted a lot of time wondering 'why?'. Also, the term
'single mother' repulsed me. It conjured up images of living in a trailer park, having nine kids, fag
hanging out the mouth, new boyfriend every night – I'm sure you get my drift.
Severe shock, anxiety and depression became my good friends. I would wake up in the morning and
felt like my bum was on fire and I had to move fast. The baby got bundled into the pram and we
roamed the streets of Sydney – rain, hail or shine – every day. This exercise assisted me greatly with
my mental state which was manic/panic. I broke down in my GP's office and he saw that I had no
coping skills for this 'adjustment' to sole parenthood. He referred me to a psychiatrist under the
Medicare scheme as I qualified for five free consultations. We did psychotherapy (still don't know how
this works but it's good stuff!) together and I grew stronger and developed stress coping skills. I also
lost weight through stress and that was a bonus!
At separation time, I worked part-time, 15 hours per week and now had sole responsibility for a
Sydney mortgage! With fear and shame, I went and talked to my employer about my new 'status'.
That was a good move as my workplace supported me greatly with extra hours and offers of
counselling. I didn't think I would qualify for Centrelink but I wrote a general letter and, to my absolute
surprise, I did qualify and was supported by way of parenting payment single, family tax benefit –
parts A and B, pensioner education supplement, JET assistance and the blue pensioner card.
I was too ashamed to tell my family and hid the news. They made a surprise visit one day when I was
doing 'doona therapy' and not looking so good. My horrible secret came out and they supported me
all the way – phone calls, cards and flowers on Mother's Day (which I never would have got), took me
for restaurant meals for my birthday and special occasions, bought my child necessities (clothes, etc)
when I had no money to and spoilt my child (toys, etc). They gave me courage to share my 'failure'
with others and I formed other support networks (my child's playgroup, fellowship, other sole parents,
TAFE friends, work colleagues, church, etc). These people sympathised with me, loved me, cared
what happened to me and my child, and kept an eye on us.
I have not had another relationship since separation and this gave me an opportunity to discover
myself and new things. I felt empowered when I could do the oil and water/pump the tyres/minor
repairs to my car, change a light bulb and DIY little repairs to my home, bought a new lounge, etc.
Because money is always tight, I follow religiously the Best Weekend section of the Daily Telegraph,
the Noticeboard and What's On sections in the Manly Daily, Sydney's Child and AUSSIE Kids (free
magazines) for free/cheap activities, and websites such as Kidspot Australia, Living Social Sydney,
etc, network with everyone, am imaginative and creative with my child (we set up a vet hospital at
home as he loves Bondi Vet), and enter every competition under the sun (and sometimes win –
Easter Show tickets!). I have worked so hard to create a happy home environment where my child
and I don't go without or feel less than others, and that requires thinking outside the box and
ingenuity.
“I dreamed a thousand paths, I woke and walked my own.”
Chinese proverb
1
Name changed to protect identity.
©
May 2013
5
The worst thing I did after separation was still have intimate relations with my ex-husband. Stupidly, it
gave me hope that we might get back together. That's the only reason I did it. That act was
desperate and so damaging to my self-esteem and confidence. Each time I realised I had been used
again, I got really angry and would start fighting with my ex-husband. I don't recommend this to
anyone at all.
I still have fear of the future and financial insecurity but it's not chronic these days. I take the attitude
that whatever happens, I can deal with it. As hard as it has been, I wouldn't change a thing because
of the person I am today. Most things aren't the end of the world and surviving this trauma has made
me a stronger, more compassionate person. I like to help other sole parents at that horrendous
separation point and pass on my knowledge. Now, I really enjoy being by myself with my child. We
run our own ship. I hope this helps you and may God bless you always.
http://www.ivillage.ca/parenting/divorce-single-parents/single-mom-quotes
©
May 2013
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Crisis support
The Salvation Army, Manly
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
59 Pittwater Road, Manly
Monday-Friday, 9am-4.45pm
137 258
1300 363 622 (24 hour counselling service)
9977 1304 (Manly Corps)
manly.corps@aue.salvationarmy.org
www.salvos.org.au
What is it?
Offers practical and financial help and support in the following areas:
•
refuge and accommodation (including domestic violence support)
•
financial counselling
•
drugs and alcohol
•
suicide prevention and bereavement
•
family and personal issues
•
problem gambling
•
legal services
•
employment and training
•
youth issues
•
court and prison support
•
telephone counselling
•
female welfare officer available
•
emergency relief
•
crisis support
•
art therapy
•
self-development courses
•
hot showers
Lifeline Northern Beaches
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
310 Sydney Road, Balgowlah
Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm
9949 5522
131 114 (24 hour crisis line)
admin@lifelinenb.org.au
www.lifeline.org.au/northernbeaches
What is it?
Offers 24 hour telephone crisis support and other support services including face-to-face counselling,
financial counselling, a variety of support groups, suicide crisis support program, welfare assistance,
stress management workshops and emergency relief.
©
May 2013
7
Manly Community Centre
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
12 Wentworth Street, Manly
9977 1066
mcc1@bigpond.net.au
www.manlycommunitycentre.com.au
What is it?
This is a drop-in centre that offers:
•
counselling: individuals, couples and families
•
domestic violence support and advocacy including a six week 'Building Blocks' support group
and ongoing women's support group
•
housing and accommodation: tenancy help and emergency accommodation
•
legal and financial: free advice
•
health and well-being: nurse visits
St Vincent de Paul Society
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
638 Pittwater Road, Brookvale
Monday-Friday, 9am-4.30pm (by appointment only)
9905 0424
nb.manager@vinnies.org.au
www.vinnies.org.au
What is it?
Assists people in need and combat social injustice across Australia. People are often provided with
furniture, clothing and household goods free of charge through the Society's Vinnies Centres.
Centres also offer affordable clothing and goods to the wider community. Services include:
•
home visitation
•
addiction services
•
learning services
•
family services
•
mental health
•
community support
•
youth services
•
Vinnies shops
•
holiday accommodation
•
no interest loans
•
financial counselling service – assistance is given through financial assessment, negotiation
with creditors, information, education and referrals. The aim is to offer options. Service is free
and confidential and aims to assist people experiencing financial hardship.
©
May 2013
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Survival story – 'My time of hell'
2
My name is Emily. Three months after giving birth to our first child, my husband decided to call it
quits. He said he didn't love me anymore!
As we were living in his parents' holiday house until our house settled (we were intending to re-locate
back to Sydney), he kicked me out in the street! Thankfully, I had my parents, brothers and really
supportive friends to see me through 'my time of hell'.
My parents kindly took my son and me back with open arms into their home. Thank goodness!
Initially, I felt embarrassed to tell people we had split as I was the only person I knew that had
divorced. My parents, my brothers, my aunties and uncles still, to this day, are all happily married.
Then came my self-doubt. What was wrong with me? What did I do wrong? I didn't have a cent to
my name as I was not working so soon after giving birth, and I most definitely was not expecting this
to happen to me. All our clothing, except for a few items we had in an overnight bag, were still in
storage from the move. This was the worst time in my life!
After shedding many tears and some time had passed, I thought I needed to get myself sorted out, if
not for me, for my son. I felt guilty and sad for my son that he was so young and was without his dad
on a daily basis. I felt bad and embarrassed for my parents that I had failed. Now, it was time for
action! I am a strong-minded and strong-willed person so I went to Centrelink and started receiving
some single parent benefits. Next, I got a job during the weeknights whilst my son was sleeping so I
wasn't missing out on him, and my parents were at home to mind him. I kept myself busy during the
weekdays with my son, and did some things for myself (which I always put off) which took my mind off
my husband and our situation. My best friends would always ask me to their house most weekends,
even if they knew I wouldn't go sometimes, which really helped me. Really, I just keeping busy and
time was my saviour.
At the time of my break-up, I was in the worst situation of my life. I have proved to myself that I am
strong and have learned from my past to help with my present. I am now a mother of two (almost
three children) and am with a loving partner. Life does get better!
Free meal services
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Salvation Army Soup Kitchen
59 Pittwater Road, Manly
Monday-Thursday, 8.30am-9am (breakfast)
Monday-Friday, 11am-12noon (lunch)
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Street Mission Cafe
Outside Uniting Church, Gilbert Park, Manly
Saturday, 6.30pm
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
St Mathew's Church
The Corso, Manly
Monday, 6pm-8pm
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Manly Community Centre
12 Wentworth Street, Manly
Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm (drop-in coffee bar/refreshments)
Wednesday, 11am-2pm (Oz Harvest delivery)
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
St John's Anglican Church
Oaks Avenue, Dee Why
Wednesday, 7pm
2
©
May 2013
9
Survival story – 'I wasn't drowning and I
wasn't swimming, just treading water!'
3
My name is Eden and I often describe my first marriage as treading water. I explain it to people in
the sense that 'I wasn't drowning and I wasn't swimming, just treading water!'
I feel I am a very loyal person and once I commit to something, I see it through and that’s how I
viewed my marriage.
Eleven years to the day, my ex-husband did me the enormous favour of leaving me. I never would
have had the strength or courage to leave. I was uneducated, had been out of the workforce for
seven years and was technologically unskilled. I remember feeling numb. Who was I without my
partner? Was I capable of bringing up two children on my own? How financially was I going to do it?
Then came the guilt, yes he left me but I knew I had played a part in it. I was a failure at the one thing
I had always wanted: marriage and a family. My parents and both siblings had divorced, I thought I
might be the one to make it. I knew I had failed my boys and felt sad for the life they hoped for.
Then came the baby steps. With the support of friends, I put one foot in front of the other. I took
myself into Centrelink and applied for the sole parent pension. I got friends to show me the way
around a computer and I applied for a job and got it.
Soon my self-doubt turned into empowerment and I told myself I am loveable and I deserve to be
loved. I stopped being a cynic and became optimistic again.
I enrolled in a TAFE course and started achieving things on my own. I sold my house and found a
new place for my boys and me to live. Slowly my life came back on track and I was self-sufficient.
This was a massive learning curve in my own development and I now believe we are all better off
after the decision to divorce.
I am now re-married and am the happiest I have ever been. I learnt the life lesson of it’s not what
possessions we have, but the people in our lives that make us truly happy. I now have new inner
strength and am a capable woman and honestly believe that without this ‘life hurdle’, I would be a
different person today. What doesn’t kill us makes us stronger!
3
©
May 2013
10
Medical & dental services (all bulk-billed)
Specialist Medicare services available
If you suffer from a condition that has lasted, or is predicted to last, for six months or longer, you may
be eligible for Medicare assistance under the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) scheme.
Chronic conditions covered include:
•
asthma
•
diabetes
•
depression
•
arthritis
•
stroke
•
cancer
•
heart disease
•
high blood pressure
Eligible patients must have a chronic (or terminal) medical condition, which requires complex care that
is being managed by a GP under strategies known as GP Management Plans and Team Care
Arrangements. These strategies allow most patients to be referred by their GP for up to five
Medicare rebateable allied health services a year.
What can you claim?
•
Exercise physiology
•
Musculoskeletal treatments
•
Podiatry
•
Psychological treatment
•
Dietetics
•
Midwifery
•
IVF
•
Weight-loss surgery
•
Occupational therapy
Dee Why Family Medical Centre
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Shop 9, 7 Howard Avenue, Dee Why
Saturday, 9am-4pm, Sunday, 9am-1pm
1300 333 949
info@deewhymedical.com.au
www.deewhymedical.com.au
What is it?
Bulk-billing medical centre with many doctors and other services under the one roof including:
•
pharmacy
•
physiotherapist
•
social worker
•
psychologist
•
gynaecologist
•
podiatrist
•
dietician
•
pathology
©
May 2013
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Queenscliff Community Health Centre
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Web:
Cnr Lakeside Crescent and Palm Avenue, North Manly
Monday-Friday, 8.30am-5pm
9466 2500
www.nscchealth.nsw.gov.au
What is it?
•
Child and family health
•
Developmental and behavioural paediatrics
•
Child speech pathology
•
Child occupational therapy
•
Child and adolescent mental health
•
Drug and alcohol services
•
Health information services
Mona Vale Hospital Adult Dental Clinic
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Web:
Northern Sydney Local Health District Oral Health Services
In grounds of Mona Vale Hospital, Coronation Street, Mona Vale
Monday-Friday, 7.30am-4.30pm
1300 789 404
http://www.nslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/NSHLD_Hospitals/monavale.html
What is it?
Free public dental service for adults who hold a Centrelink concession card. The service provides
routine dental treatment including examinations, x-rays, fillings, extractions, dentures and oral hygiene
instruction.
Dee Why Child Dental Clinic
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Web:
Northern Sydney Local Health District Oral Health Services
In grounds of Dee Why Public School, Fisher Road, Dee Why
1300 789 404
http://www.healthdirectory.com.au/Special_care/Children/2139,102560/Dee%20Why
%20Child%20Dental%20Clinic/
What is it?
Free public dental service available to all children under 18. The service provides routine dental
treatment including examinations, x-rays, fillings, extractions and oral hygiene instruction.
©
May 2013
12
Survival story – Candy’s4 Story
I first became a single mum in 1991. My son was ten months old and I was six weeks pregnant with
my daughter. At the time, my application for permanent residency was with the Department of
Immigration, which meant I was not entitled to any Centrelink assistance.
My ex-husband would give me $250 per week for my rent and I would have to go into his posh offices
to pick up the money every week. I found this humiliating having to ask him for money.
My ex-husband had friends who were barristers, who would represent him in court at no cost, as my
ex-husband would do work for them on an ongoing basis.
His lawyers drew up the divorce papers for me to sign and when I asked about the property we owned
in Kangaroo Valley, they told me the bank had repossessed it. I then received divorce papers and the
custody battle began. This lasted for about eight years. My ex-husband never paid any child support
for the two children. When the divorce went through, part of the settlement stated that my
ex-husband had to pay the medical bills for the birth of our son. My ex-husband told the Child
Support Agency that he had paid these bills, so I was now in debt to him. I went to Legal Aid for
advice, they told me they could help with the divorce and access but they couldn’t do anything in
regards to settlement and child support. I never received any child support for the children as my
ex-husband had his own business and would keep his income at a rate where he didn’t have to pay
any child support. When our daughter turned 18, my ex-husband started to declare his earnings.
We lived on the poverty line for a couple of years, where I would have to get financial assistance from
St Vinnie's, Lifeline and the sole parents pension.
When I became a single parent, most of my friends that were in couples stopped including my
children and me in their social circles. My husband had planted the seed in me that I was worthless
and who else would have me.
I married again two years later and had another three children. This marriage was a happy marriage
until my daughter was born and then my husband had the pressures of supporting three children and
a wife, along with the custody fight that was happening with my ex-husband. This marriage was very
rocky and the children and I suffered domestic violence. This went on for years with the Police being
called on numerous occasions. The last fight we had ended with me having to receive hospital
treatment for seven stiches to my face. Through meeting Sandra, the Domestic Violence Officer at
Manly Police station, I was then given information on services available to my children and me. This
started with me doing a domestic violence course at the women’s refuge in Dee Why, and my children
receiving counselling. I wanted my children to grow up knowing that violence was not normal and that
it was not their fault. The women’s refuge and St Vinnie’s gave me so much support and empathy, I
was offered court support and help with getting onto the Housing list, which resulted in us being
housed in government housing. When I look back on what we went through, I could not have
survived without the support and payments from Centrelink and other non-government organisations.
Today, my eldest son is studying forensics at uni, my eldest daughter has just completed her
hairdressing apprenticeship and has gone on a world trip, my next daughter has just started her own
business and my two younger boys are still in school. I have been studying for the past three years
and I am very proud of how far we have come as a family and how well adjusted my children are.
None of the children are in contact with their fathers.
“The only person you are destined to become is the person you
decide to be.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1803 – 1882
4
©
May 2013
13
Further education
TAFE Programs for Women
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Northern Beaches TAFE
154 Old Pittwater Road, Brookvale
131 674
nsi.study@tafensw.edu.au
www.nsi.tafensw.edu.au
What is it?
•
Work Opportunities for Women (WOW) – WOW assists women who are entering the
workforce for the first time or re-entering employment or study after many years. Students
focus on the development of communication skills, along with skills and knowledge to access
employment and further education.
•
Career Education and Employment for Women (CEEW) – CEEW aims to help women
develop new skills to enhance study, job and career options (Hornsby campus only).
•
Work Wise Women (WWW) – WWW's initiative aims to increase women’s participation in
information technology and address the barriers to this growing industry where participation by
men is considerably higher.
•
Digi-Girls Program for Women (Digi-Girls) – this program is for women to improve their
technical skills for specific purposes in a supportive environment. Targeting home-based,
micro and small business women operators to advise ways that technology can help build their
business. Program recognises the need for short sessions which can fit in around family
responsibilities. In general, programs are half-day, sometimes requiring more than one
session.
Jobs, Education and Training Scheme (JET)
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Web:
Department of Human Resources (formerly Centrelink)
660-664 Pittwater Road, Brookvale
136 150
http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/services/centrelink/jobs-educationand-training-child-care-fee-assistance
What is it?
Child care fee assistance while studying. JET child care fee assistance's current rate is a parental
co-contribution of $1.00 per child per hour of care (up from 10 cents co-contribution).
©
May 2013
14
TAFE Single & Teenage Parents' Program
Contact:
Address:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Northern Beaches TAFE
154 Old Pittwater Road, Brookvale
9941 5248 or 131 674
merelyn.langley@det.nsw.edu.au
www.nsi.tafensw.edu.au
What is it?
Eligible students will receive mentoring, assistance with job seeking, plus workshops on topics such
as job skills, personal presentation, parenting and life skills.
Student Assistance Scheme (SAS)
Contact:
Web:
Contact your School Principal directly
http://www.schools.nsw.edu.au/studentsupport/scholarshipsmore/
What is it?
Provides funding to government schools to assist families in the payment of school-related expenses.
SAS funds can be used for excursions and camps, sport, subject contributions, textbooks and
stationery needs, clothing/uniforms and footwear, but not general school contributions.
Parents/carers need to make application to the school principal for consideration. Applications are
assessed on a case-by-case basis and are treated with empathy and confidentiality.
“I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.”
Louisa May Alcott, 1832 – 1888
©
May 2013
15
Survival story – Angel in my corner
5
Hi my name is Ruby and I am a sole parent. Just saying that makes me feel as if I'm about to deliver
my sob story at the weekly 'AA' meeting. Well, I can assure you I am not. I don't look at being a
single parent as a shortcoming. In fact, I find it quite empowering. Sure, financially it is daunting and
depressing, but some strong lessons in life have shown me it's not money that makes you happy.
I have had a fortunate life with plenty of highs and my fair share of lows. I am blessed with a very
supportive family and friends who are there for me in the good times and the bad. Being a single
parent was a better option for me as my ex-partner has always been employed as a casual labourer
and loves his beer and horses, which basically meant he couldn't support us financially or emotionally.
It wasn't the lack of money that finally broke the camel's back, it was not sharing the same
responsibility I felt towards our son. Hey, I have my issues as well. I am far from perfect but after
countless arguments and dramas, I finally realized we were not on the same page. This is not to say
my ex-partner doesn't love our son as much as I do, it is just a fact that after fighting for a cause for so
long, it somehow gets lost by the wayside of what you are fighting for: Love, Trust, Loyalty? Who
knows in the end.
Two years ago I found myself homeless with a child and suitcase for six weeks over the Christmas
period, not a long time in hindsight but felt like a life time, trust me. I was walking around the streets
of Dee Why on a hot day and I just had nothing left. I walked into the Salvation Army in Fisher Road
and broke down. They quickly explained they didn't help with accommodation and referred me on to
Housing which they may as well have said 'Go and buy yourself a Lotto ticket'. I had already been to
Housing and the guy there said 'Well, if you can't afford to live in the area, you will have to move
somewhere you can'. I told him this is where my friends and family are, but that didn't seem to make
an ounce of difference. Isolation, really? Is this what it had come down to?
Funny thing KARMA! Whilst I was in the Salvo's, I had remembered reading an article in the Manly
Daily. On the front cover was a woman and her four children with their suitcases, this was shortly
after I had my son. I read the article intently. It was pleading for the public to help find this mother,
and similar cases, affordable or temporary accommodation. I empathised greatly with their situation
and thought I could offer a mum with one child a room if it meant it could help a person get back on
their feet. So I rang! Offering my spare room, I had a good chat with the lady on the phone, she took
my details and that was the end of that.
Fast forward two years, I'm standing in the Salvo's broken, no avenues left and remembered I had
spoken to a lady about helping parents find housing. I asked them if they knew of her and how I could
get in contact. 'Oh, you mean Margret from Pregnancy Help?' Yes, they knew who I was talking
about and gave me her phone number. I left feeling revitalized. There was a small chance this lady
might be able to help. I rang and went to see Margret, it was like an angel had finally landed in my
corner, what a woman and what a life's work of helping women who find themselves exactly in the
position I was in. She knows the system and how it doesn't really work in your favour. She said to
me 'Just get a place', we will source the money from various fundraisers we have done over
Christmas and there was some petty cash in this organisation that she had access to. I left the
meeting with Margret with a double bounce in my step.
Now this is where KARMA also comes into play. As I am leaving this meeting the phone rings. It is
one of the many agents I had made enquiries and applications to. He had got my message about
wanting to apply for a flat and said he could meet me there in about ten minutes. I know, I couldn't
believe the timing myself either. I went straight to the viewing with my new found confidence and
sheer desperation. Oh, and what do you know? This place could not have been more perfect. I
basically spilled my guts to the nicest realtor I have ever met in my life, thought I was going to get
down on hands and knees at one stage, but held my composure. He said the golden words 'If you
want it, it's yours'.
5
©
May 2013
16
Hallelujah, it felt like Christmas all over again! I felt like I had won Lotto! That was on the Friday, I
moved in the following Wednesday. Yeah for me! For doing it tough for so long and coming out the
other end of the affordable housing crisis on the northern beaches and I did it on my own. Yes, I
received assistance from a charity organisation, which reiterates how fortunate we are to live in a
country that supports the most vulnerable.
I would just like to make a special thanks to MARGRET from Pregnancy Help at Brookvale
Community Centre. She is an inspiration and made me feel as if I was just sitting down and having a
chat with my old nan. That is what defines community service work and all those who contribute to
the welfare of others. Mine is just one of many cases as a sole parent but sometimes, just
sometimes, it is your turn for some good luck to come your way.
And to my dear beautiful grandmother who is missed every day, she used to have some good
sayings, and this one is my favourites and goes out to the angel in my corner (Margret):
Life is mostly froth and bubble
Two things stand like stone
Kindness in another's troubles
And courage in your own
The wise man should be prepared for everything that does not lie
within his control.”
Pythagoras
©
May 2013
17
Housing services
Homeless Persons Helpline
Tel:
1800 234 566
What is it?
Emergency accommodation.
Manly Warringah Women’s Resource Centre Ltd
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
PO Box 556, Dee Why
9971 4499
admin@mwwrc.org.au
What is it?
Provides services for women and children who have been affected by domestic violence. Provides
crisis accommodation, early intervention and prevention, counselling and group work, medium-term
supported accommodation, advice, information, referral and advocacy.
The Burdekin Association Inc
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Suites 6 & 7, 2 Victor Road, Brookvale
8976 1777
burdekin.admin@burdekin.org.au
www.burdekin.org.au
What is it?
Has an Early Intervention and Family Support program which provides support to families with young
people at risk of homelessness. Burdekin work with young people between the ages of 12-21 and
provide a range of accommodation and support options.
Housing NSW
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Web:
Unit 17A/18, Ground Floor, 818 Pittwater Road, Dee Why
9971 3600 (Dee Why)
1300 468 746 - general enquiries (24 hours/7 days)
1800 152 152 - after hours temporary accommodation (Monday-Friday, 4.30pm10pm, weekends and public holidays, 10am-10pm)
www.housing.nsw.gov.au
What is it?
Provides safe, affordable housing opportunities for low-income earners such as people receiving
pensions so that they can live with dignity, find support if needed and achieve sustainable futures.
Also offers emergency housing.
“Everything happens for a reason.”
American proverb
©
May 2013
18
Survival story – 'You ain't going anywhere,
you bloody bitch!'
6
Hello, my name is Jo. I am 25 years old and live in Mona Vale on the northern beaches. One night I
went out with a group of friends to the local club and I met this man called Shane. We sat and talked
for ages as I thought he was nice. Shane lived in a caravan in the caravan park in Vineyard. The
caravan was small. It had two bunk beds at one end, a table in the middle with a lounge that wrapped
around the table, a little stove and sink, a bar fridge and, at the other end, there was a double bed. It
was a couple of months later we had met up again and I was looking for somewhere to live and
Shane asked me if I would like to stay at his place and I said 'Thank you, if you are sure'. My friends
Tony, Samantha and Shane helped me move all my belongings to his place. I finally set everything
up so that it felt like home. However, it was a long way from my friends and family. There were two
buses that took you into Windsor shopping centre, one bus in the morning and one in the afternoon.
Once you are at Windsor, you could catch a train to Blacktown and then into the city.
One day I went for a walk down the road, and all you could see were farm houses and lots of
paddocks with milking cows and sheep. I came to a fruit market that was cheap for your fruit, vegies
and cold drinks. A couple of months later, things changed and we were arguing all the time as both of
us did not have jobs and we were living on top of each other. Shane got very violent and started
drinking and he regularly beat me.
One evening Shane was drunk as usual but seemed very aggressive. He started to hit me, screamed
abuse, threw things at me and attacked me so badly I was black and blue and feared for my life. I ran
to the phone box to ring my friends and as I was talking, he grabbed the phone and hung it up and
said 'You ain't going anywhere, you bloody bitch!' He grabbed me and pushed me towards the
caravan so I did what he said to keep the peace. He went down to his mate’s caravan and I was not
happy sitting and looking around the van and I noticed a photo of a little girl aged about five years old.
I didn’t say anything at first and then when I asked, he said it didn’t matter so I went to lay down as I
was not feeling very well.
That evening he was drunk and abusive so I waited until he went back to his mates and I grabbed the
keys to his car. I jumped into the car, started it and smashed through the boom gate terrified, shaking
uncontrollably and totally in a panic and fearful for my life. I made it to the train station but I was so
desperate that I jumped out of the car as it was moving and the car rolled backwards. I just made it
onto the train as it left Windsor station and when I finally got to Blacktown station, with no money and
no ticket, I then had to 'jump' trains to Central station. Finally, I found that I was safe so I called my
friends and told them where I was and they came and picked me up. They were totally horrified to
see the state that I was in.
I was so traumatised and afraid that neither my friends nor I reported it to the Police. He was so
violent, manipulative and often under the influence of both alcohol and drugs that I couldn’t trust that
he wouldn’t seek revenge and kill me.
Later, my sickness was telling me that I was pregnant and I knew that he wouldn’t want anything to do
with it. My feelings were right as he was already married and had three children. So I found
somewhere to live and he has never had anything to do with his son, Matthew, who is now twenty-one
and he does not want anything to do with him.
Despite still experiencing fear going out alone at night, I have moved on in life. I am now more
assertive and confident and won’t tolerate abuse. I’ve had two more children whom I love and protect
as life is getting better.
6
©
May 2013
19
Legal services
Legal Aid NSW
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Web:
323 Castlereagh Street, Haymarket (head office)
9219 5000 or 1300 888 529 (LawAccess NSW)
www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au
What is it?
Provides legal services to socially and economically disadvantaged people across New South Wales.
Delivers legal services in most areas of criminal, family and civil law.
Legal Aid NSW, Manly
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Manly Community Centre, 12 Wentworth Street, Manly
Family law clinic – every Tuesday
Civil law clinic – every Thursday
9219 5000
What is it?
•
Free weekly advice clinics on civil law and family law
•
Advice on unpaid fines, credit card debt, employment disputes, tenancy matters and issues
with Centrelink
•
Advice on family law including separations, domestic violence, child support and spouse
maintenance
Law Society of NSW
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Solicitor Referral Service
170 Phillip Street, Sydney
Monday-Friday, 9am-12noon and 1pm-4pm
9926 0300 or 1800 422 713
ereferral@lawsociety.com.au or crs@lawsociety.com.au
http://www.lawsociety.com.au/community/findingalawyer/solicitorreferralservice/index.htm
What is it?
Can provide you with details of lawyers in your area that are approved by Legal Aid NSW from their
database. Can include other criteria in your search, such as firms with solicitors who:
•
make legal aid applications
•
make home, hospital or prison visits
•
are prepared to take calls after hours in criminal matters
•
are fluent in languages other than English
•
are female
•
are Accredited Specialists (for more information visit the Specialist Accreditation Scheme at
http://www.lawsociety.com.au/community/findingalawyer/SpecialistAccreditationScheme
/index.htm)
“To have joy one must share it.”
Lord George Byron, 1788 – 1824
©
May 2013
20
Women's Legal Services NSW
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
PO Box 206, Lidcombe
Monday-Friday, 9am-1pm and 2pm-4.30pm
8745 6900 (administration)
reception@wlsnsw.org.au
www.womenslegalnsw.asn.au
What is it?
Administration
Community legal centre providing women with a range of free community legal services including
legal advice and information, education, training and resources across metropolitan and regional
areas of New South Wales. Provides a free service for all women in the community, particularly for
those who are socially and economically disadvantaged.
Women's Legal Contact Line
Hours:
Monday, 9.30am-12.30pm, Tuesday, 1.30pm-4.30pm, Thursday, 9.30pm-12.30pm
Tel:
8745 6988 or 1800 801 501
What is it?
Provides free confidential legal information and referrals for women in New South Wales with a focus
on family law, domestic violence, sexual assault and discrimination. Advice may be given by
appointment.
Domestic Violence Legal Service
Hours:
Monday, 1.30pm-4.30pm, Tuesday, 9.30am-12.30pm, Thursday, 1.30pm-4.30pm,
Friday, 9.30am-12.30pm
Tel:
8745 6999 or 1800 810 784
What is it?
Provides free confidential legal information, advice and referrals for women in New South Wales with
a focus on domestic violence and Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs).
Indigenous Women's Legal Contact Line
Hours:
Monday, 10am-12.30pm, Tuesday, 10am-12.30pm, Thursday, 10am-12.30pm
Tel:
8745 6977 or 1800 639 784
What is it?
Provides free confidential legal information, advice and referrals for Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander women in New South Wales with focus on domestic violence, sexual assault, parenting
issues, family law, discrimination and victim's compensation.
Warringah Community Legal Service
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Dee Why Community Centre, Easy Transport House, 30 Howard Avenue, Dee Why
Thursday, 6pm-8pm, second Saturday of each month (except January),
10am-12noon
9938 4006 (Peter) or 0414 793 473 (Esther)
warringahlegal@gmail.com
www.legaladviceservice.com.au
What is it?
Free legal advice and referral service provided by volunteer local solicitors and barristers, open to all,
not means-tested, no appointment necessary, and a walk-in service.
“The world breaks everyone and afterwards many are strong at
the broken places.”
Ernest Hemingway, 1899 – 1961
©
May 2013
21
Women’s Family Law Support Service
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Web:
Level 5, Sydney Family Law Registry, 97-99 Goulburn Street, Sydney
Monday-Thursday, 9am-1pm
9217 7389
www.wrrc.org.au
What is it?
Provides women with free and confidential support which can include the provision of information
about court processes and the role of court staff, referrals to other agencies, accompaniment to court
appointments, assistance with arranging legal representation and assistance in arranging appropriate
court security measures.
Domestic Violence Line
Hours:
24 hours/7days
Tel:
1800 656 463 or TTY 1800 671 442
Web:
http://www.community.nsw.gov.au/docs_menu/parents_carers_and_families/domestic_and_family_vi
olence/dv_line.html
What is it?
Provides telephone counselling, information and referrals for women and same-sex partners who are
experiencing or have experienced domestic violence. Trained female caseworkers are sensitive to
the needs of people who have experienced domestic violence. Domestic Violence Line staff are
aware of the special needs of Aboriginal women and women from other cultures, as well as those
living in rural and remote areas. Interpreters and TTY can be arranged where necessary to ensure
that all people, regardless of their language or disability, can use the service. The service has an
extensive list of contacts, people and services across New South Wales who can help.
Dee Why Police
Address: Cnr St David Avenue & Fisher Road, Dee Why
Hours:
Open 24 hours
Tel:
9971 3399
Web:http://www.police.nsw.gov.au/community_issues/domestic__and__family_violence/introduction
What is it?
All Police are trained to take reports in domestic matters. Additionally, Dee Why has a Domestic
Violence Liaison Officer (DVLO) who is a specialist Police officer, trained in the dynamics of domestic
and family violence, child protection procedures, victim support and court Apprehended Violence
Orders (AVOs) processes required for the protection of victims of family violence. The role of the
DVLO is:
•
to provide advice to Police and victims
•
assist in referral to appropriate support agencies
•
maintain close working relationships with all support agencies
•
review and oversee all domestic and family violence reports and cases
•
assist victims through the court process for AVOs
•
monitor repeat victims and perpetrators
©
May 2013
22
Survival story – A Father's Story
When my son was six years, I split with my wife, as we couldn’t stand each other any more. It was
the hardest decision of my life to walk away from his happy smiling face.
I didn’t realise that was just the beginning of my nightmare. Within a month, I received a letter from
her 'solicitor' telling me she was entitled to half my savings and 75% of my superannuation. I gave
this freely, as I was the one who had deserted the family. All I took from the house was a bag of
clothes and my bike.
Then I received another letter from her 'solicitor', informing me of my limited visiting rights to my son.
She was a solicitor so she must be within the law. Soon I was living in a one-bedroom flat, paying
$1,600 per month in child support.
My ex-wife poisoned my son’s mind, telling him I was a bad person who had deserted him. There is
no support for single fathers so I got what I thought I deserved and started drinking and taking drugs
heavily and daily, to kill the pain.
Birthdays and Christmas were extremely difficult as she would mostly make me stay away. I still hate
Christmas to this day because of the mental torture of spending the day mostly alone and drinking.
I quickly became an alcoholic/addict, and lost the capacity to love anyone or anything. I couldn’t even
end my life properly, and would awake on a floor somewhere in my apartment and start again.
In 2010, through the help of many rehabs and Alcoholics Anonymous, I got sober and realised that I
was a sick person and not a bad person. I got to spend my son’s 18th birthday with him and his
friends, we went paintballing, ate pizza, and he and his mates drank Coronas. It was one of best
days of my life, as I realised that my son loved me.
After getting sober, I discovered groups like Lifeline, Beyond Blue and Suicide Prevention Australia.
They told me if I had ended my life, I would have killed the wrong person!
To any dads out there who find themselves in my situation, seek help, immediately. It is too late when
you’re dead. The pubs and parks are full of dads who have just lost all direction in life.
©
May 2013
23
Social activities
Harbord Diggers
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Cost:
80 Evans Street, Freshwater
Friday & Saturday, 9am-4am, Sunday-Thursday, 9am-2am
9938 1444
harbordinfo@mountiesgroup.com.au
www.harborddiggers.com.au
Membership costs approximately $6 per year
What is it?
•
Diggers Cove playground
•
Family fun days
•
Creative arts program at Waves Youth Centre
•
Sports Fundamentals program
•
Mother’s groups friendly (stroller friendly atmosphere – you can gain easy access to the club
via the eastern outdoor car park, children can play, catering staff will assist you with warming
baby bottles and food, and baby changing facilities located in the toilets close to the deck)
•
Kid’s meals at Madigan's and coffee shop for mums
•
Also, during school holidays, kid’s entertainment including shows, exhibits, etc usually for $5
per ticket
•
Kids family disco (for the under 12s), 6pm-8pm on the first Friday of each month, free entry
Dee Why RSL
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Cost:
932 Pittwater Road, Dee Why
Monday-Friday, 10am-4am, Saturday & Sunday, 9am-6am
9454 4000
info@dyrsl.com.au
www.deewhyrsl.com.au
Membership costs approximately $5 per year
What is it?
•
Kids disco held on selected Fridays at 4.30pm, $5 per ticket
•
Also, during school holidays, kid’s entertainment including shows, exhibits, etc for a small fee
Water Skills for Life Inc (Collaroy Turtles Water Safety
Swim Program)
Contact:
Address:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Cost:
Water Skills for Life
Collaroy Rockpool
Tanya Carmont 0438 828 725 or David Lorimer 9972 7131
tanya.carmont@gmail.com
www.waterskillsforlife.org.au
$25 registration fee and gold coin donation per week
What is it?
Children over three years and adults learn to swim program available to disadvantaged families held
at the Collaroy Rockpool in summer (December to April).
“It is best to learn wisdom by the experience of others.”
Latin Proverb
©
May 2013
24
Warringah Mall Library
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Cost:
2nd Floor, Warringah Mall, Old Pittwater Road, Brookvale
Monday-Wednesday, 9am-5pm
Thursday, 9am-9pm
Friday-Saturday, 9am-5pm
Sunday, 10am-4pm
9942 7999
library@wls.nsw.gov.au
www.wls.nsw.gov.au
Free
What is it?
•
Membership also includes membership to Dee Why Library (tel: 9942 2449), Belrose Library
(tel: 9452 3211) and Forestville Library (tel: 9452 5706) and resources can be borrowed for
three weeks, returned to any of these libraries, and up to thirty items at a time
•
Books, CDs, DVDs, children's books, magazines and X-Box (to play at library)
•
Free Babies Into Books, Toddler Time and Pre-School Storytime programs, special events
(eg, lego group, chess competition, sand art, cupcake creations, author talks, etc)
•
Special activities for children in the school holidays for a small fee (usually $5)
•
Free public access to computers with Internet and Microsoft Office software
•
Photocopying, printing and faxing services for a small fee
Warringah Mall
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Web:
Cost:
Old Pittwater Road, Brookvale
Monday-Wednesday, 9am-5.30pm
Thursday, 9am-9pm
Saturday, 9am-5pm
Sunday, 10am-4pm
9905 0633
www.westfield.com.au/warringahmall
Usually free, sometimes small fee of $5
What is it?
Lots of activities during the school holidays. Watch the Manly Daily and noticeboards within the Mall
for details (eg, shows such as Dora, Wot Wots, etc on the stage near the Food Court, an annual
Christmas pantomime, Christmas carols which are free with complimentary services for parents such
as free hand massages, manicures, glass of champagne, etc).
Mainly Music
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Cost:
Salvation Army, Dee Why
1 Fisher Road, Dee Why
Tuesday, 10am-11.45am
9971 8378
brian-smith@ave.salvationarmy.org
www.salvos.org.au/deewhy
$10 per family
What is it?
Mainly music is a fun music group for parents or primary care givers to enjoy together with their young
child(ren). Children are introduced to music, creativity and more. Morning tea supplied for parents
and children, BYO drink for child.
“If you do not hope, you will not find what is beyond your hopes.”
St. Clement of Alexandra
©
May 2013
25
Kimbriki Resource Recovery Centre and Eco House and
Garden
Address:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Cost:
Kimbriki Road (off Mona Vale Road), Ingleside/Terrey Hills
9486 3512 or 9486 3542
kimbriki@kimbriki.com
www.kimbriki.com or www.ecohouseandgarden.com.au
Free workshops
What is it?
Adult and children's workshops to provide you with the knowledge, skills and confidence to live a
more sustainable lifestyle. Workshops are generally held on Thursdays and Sundays from
10am-1pm. Our introductory level workshops include:
•
ecological living and gardening
•
the art of composting and worms
•
beginners organic vegetable garden
•
advanced organic vegetable gardening
Drop-in time
Most Thursdays 2pm-4pm - Peter Rutherford is in the eco garden for you to drop-in with questions
about composting, worm-farming and organic gardening. Otherwise, you are welcome to enjoy the
garden anytime.
Re-Use Shop
Open 8am-4.30pm daily. An interesting place to browse for cheap pre-loved furniture, etc.
David Jones, City Store – Christmas festivities
Contact:
Address:
Web:
Cost:
Advertised on David Jones' website and in the Daily Telegraph newspaper
Level 7, Elizabeth Street Store, 86-118 Castlereagh Street, Sydney
www.davidjones.com.au
Free
What is it?
•
Free pantomime for children at Christmas time
•
Christmas windows on street level
•
Magic Cave on Level 6 for puppet displays, activities and Christmas photos with Santa
©
May 2013
26
Survival story – When I was 17, I fell pregnant
with my daughter
7
My Name is Kat and I’m 23, my daughter is four and a half and I am a single mother.
When I was 16, I was naive and vulnerable. I met a man who was what I thought would be my
protector and would look after me. Little did I know that this relationship was never going to be a walk
in the park. Drugs and alcohol were a big part of our lives back then and affected our personalities,
more so his. He was very abusive and controlling and, being so young, I didn’t know how or that I
could stick up for myself so I let him walk all over me.
When I was 17, I fell pregnant with my daughter. We were living with his parents at the time and the
arrival of the new part of our lives pushed me to grow up and pushed him to get a job and want to be
more responsible. I quit drinking and the drugs like any responsible mother-to-be would do and he
kept on drinking. We moved out and I started to realise just how isolated I was. He was always at
work and when he got home, he’d fall asleep on the couch after a few long necks of beer and always
brought his friends over. I felt so lonely, I’d spend all day by myself, cleaning, cooking and nesting,
looking forward to seeing him and every afternoon was a let down.
We were living in a granny flat, I had no friends and not much family around me. I only had his family
and him, and his family were never nice to me. I had support from Royal North Shore Hospital which
is what I think got me through and stopped me from falling into depression. Seeing the midwives,
doctors and counsellors was my highlight of the fortnight.
When I was in hospital after having my daughter, her dad came in for a visit and told me he had quit
his job. We had just moved out of the granny flat and into another unit and all I could think was what
the hell are we going to do. The rent in the new unit was a lot more than the granny flat. He
promised me he’d get another job and he never did.
I had no control over my money as he’d always take my bank card, the baby bonus was spent mostly
on drugs and the rest on crap. There were weeks there where he’d go to the pub and spend all his
money on the pokies and we’d have to use services like St Vincent’s de Paul to buy food, nappies
and baby wipes. It was to the point where I couldn’t take it anymore and we started to fight all the
time. These fights started to escalate and they ended up violent. One time he threw me around my
bedroom and I hit the post of my bed, I had marks all over me and the Police were called. An AVO
was put in place but the fights didn’t stop. There was another incident where I pushed him off me and
he hit a picture on the wall which fell and smashed on the ground. He pushed me into the broken
glass and every time I got back up, he repeatedly pushed me back into it. I was stupid enough to stay
with him but it was only because I came from a broken family, my parents split up before I was born
and I didn’t want the same thing for my baby. I wanted the happy family that I never had and I held
some hope that her father would change his abusive ways and everything would work out like I
wanted it.
Not long after this, I caught him cheating on me with a friend of ours, any feelings for him were pretty
much eradicated now, and the sole reason for us being together was our daughter in my eyes. By
this time, my daughter was one and a half. I stayed in this abusive relationship for another year. We
had moved again and the fights had become less intense because we both stopped drinking. He still
had no job and as much as he said he wanted one, he just wouldn’t get one. I was living in Burdekin
housing and he was staying with me. He wasn’t supposed to be staying with me and when Burdekin
caught wind of what was going on, they started the push to get me out and I ended up with him back
at his parents place. I hated living there! They were very mean to me and they all fight a lot. The
environment became toxic again and all I wanted to do was get out of there. We were applying for
places left, right and centre but no one would accept our applications. One afternoon I got a phone
call from a community housing place telling me they had a unit for me. It was the best gift the
universe could have given me. Stability!
"Our greatest experiences are our quietest moments.”
Friedrich Neitzche, 1844 – 1900
7
©
May 2013
27
We moved in there and the lease was put in my name. This was my place, it gave me a sense of
control over my life, something so simple as a lease in my name. This empowerment cast some kind
of what seemed like a spell of confidence. The ability to say no, to tell him to leave, became so much
easier to get out of my mouth. I wasn’t scared anymore.
A few months after moving in, I broke up with my daughter’s father. Being alone was the hardest part
but I knew I was doing the right thing not just for me but more for my daughter, because in the end
this toxic relationship was affecting her more than anyone else. Staying with him was never going to
benefit her like I thought it was, it was worse for her to stay with him. I am happy being alone now, I
used to think that I always needed someone to be there, but now I know and understand if you can’t
be happy being alone then you’ll never truly be happy in a relationship.
©
May 2013
28
Support networks
SMS Lighthouse
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Josie Parata
Howard Avenue, Dee Why
Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday, 9.30am-5pm
0431 936 031 or 9972 8675
smslighthouse@gmail.com
www.smslighthousesinglemumssupport.vpweb.com.au
What is it?
•
Administration assistance with paperwork for Centrelink, Dept of Housing, Legal Aid, etc
•
Mediation and advocacy
•
Hand-in-hand support for Court attendance, Tribunals, Housing, Relationships Australia, etc
•
Practical needs:
o
clothing and household bric-a-brac donated by Big W, Bella Vista
o
fresh bread on a Tuesday, donated from Bakers Delight, Dee Why
o
second-hand furniture donated from the community
•
'Moving Forward' – a community support group, held each fortnight on a Tuesday
•
Runs workshops with guest speakers
Northern Beaches Family Relationship Centre
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Level 1, 651 Pittwater Road, Dee Why
9981 9799
northernbeachesfrc@ransw.org.au
www.nsw.relationships.com.au
What is it?
Mediation and family dispute resolution including specific services for separating families.
Relationships Australia
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Level 1, 651 Pittwater Road, Dee Why
Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm (with some after hours sessions available)
1300 364 277
northernbeachesfrc@ransw.org.au
www.relationships.org.au
What is it?
•
Counselling for individuals and couples
•
Family therapy including child inclusive practice where appropriate
•
Family and relationship education and skills training
•
Specialised family safety programs
“Doubt whom you will, but never yourself.”
Christian Nestell Bovee, 1820 – 1904
©
May 2013
29
Pregnancy Help Manly Warringah Inc
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Margret
Brookvale Community Centre, Rear 2 Alfred Road, Brookvale
Monday & Thursday, 9.30am-4.30pm, Friday, 10am-4pm
9905 1974
What is it?
Offers support services for women in need during or after pregnancy, information and referral,
emotional support, practical assistance, advocacy and home visits.
The Link Community Food Care Program
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Cost:
Cromer Community Centre, 150 Fisher Road North, Dee Why
Friday, 10am-1pm
9999 0475
info@link.org.au
www.link.org.au
Registration fee of $2
What is it?
Provides affordable groceries, fruit and vegetables at cheap prices. For example, if you spend $5 on
dry goods, all your fruit and vegetables are free. Also hosts community events (eg, Eggs by the Lake,
an Easter egg hunt for children).
“Hundreds of dewdrops to greet the dawn,
Hundreds of bees in the clover,
Hundreds of butterflies on the lawn,
But only one mother the wide world over.”
George Cooper, 1838 – 1927
©
May 2013
30
Manly Warringah Pittwater Family Support Service
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
PO Box 556, Dee Why
Monday-Thursday, 9am-4.30pm
9982 9875
What is it?
Provides free assistance to families with children with a range of issues including relationship or
family conflict, parenting skills, budgeting and legal issues, stress from housing or health problems
and social support. Also, has a Young Mother's Support Service, an outreach worker provides free
emotional support and practical assistance to young pregnant women and mothers (aged 12-24
years) living in the northern Sydney area and experiencing difficulties due to isolation, financial
hardship, lack of accommodation and/or health issues.
Bump
Address:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
PO Box 534, Spit Junction
0419 633 881
vicki.condon@raise.org.au
www.raise.org.au
What is it?
Mentoring and workshops for pregnant and parenting young mums.
Dalwood Children's Services
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
21 Dalwood Avenue, Seaforth
Monday-Friday, 8.30am-3pm (by appointment, referral required from your doctor)
9951 0300 (main switchboard)
sjgrace@nsccahs.health.nsw.gov.au
http://wayahead.org.au/index.php/search/1096-dalwood-childrens-services
What is it?
Child and family health services including:
•
Spilstead Centre Early Intervention Service (including Brighter Futures) – assistance for
vulnerable families where there are complex family issues and children with social, emotional or
developmental needs
•
Family Care Centre
•
Parenting support service
•
STEPS (Statewide Eyesight Preschooler Screening program)
Dial-A-Mum
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Web:
PO Box 419, Lindfield
Tuesday-Sunday, 8am-11pm
9477 6777
www.dialamum.com.au
What is it?
Confidential telephone support service run by caring mums who listen to any issues that are causing
you concern on any subject including relationship difficulties, conflict with friends/family/children/work,
even if you are feeling lonely, worried, anxious or unsure of something.
“Dream big and dare to fail.”
Norman Vaughan, 1923 – 2002
©
May 2013
31
Brookvale Family Centre
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
CatholicCare Broken Bay (formerly Centacare)
Unit 9B, 44 Wattle Street, Brookvale
8968 5100
brookvalefamilycentre@dbb.org.au
www.centacarebrokenbay.org.au
What is it?
Provides flexible, secular (spiritual) centre-based and in-home assistance to families with a range of
issues including parenting concerns, relationship or financial issues, disability, separation and family
conflict. Services include:
•
family support service
•
youth support service
•
parenting and relationship education
•
Triple P, Circle of Security, Tuning In to Kids and other parenting courses
•
relationship counselling
•
financial counselling
•
family dispute resolution/mediation
•
women's domestic violence court advocacy service
•
emergency relief
KYDS
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Rear 265 Pacific Highway, Lindfield
9416 9824
kyds@bigpond.com
www.kyds.org.au
What is it?
KYDS is a free counselling service for 12-18 year olds and their families living on the north shore of
Sydney. Counsellors and psychologists use cognitive behaviour therapy and solution-focused
therapy to help young people with:
•
depression, anxiety, drug and alcohol problems, school problems, family problems, bullying,
anger management, self-esteem issues, body image, sexuality issues, relationship problems
and exam anxiety or HSC stress
•
psychologists can also see clients under the Access to Allied Psychological Services scheme
(ATAPS). You just need a referral from your GP.
Dads in Distress Support Service
Address:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Numerous locations in Sydney – see website
1300 853 437
enquiries@dadsindistress.asn.au
http://www.dadsindistress.asn.au/www/home/#photo03
What is it?
Supporting men through separation from their partner and/or children including helpline, support
groups, one-on-one support and advocacy.
“With will one can do anything.”
Samuel Smiles, 1812 – 1904
©
May 2013
32
Be Centre
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Unit 3, 9 Apollo Street, Warriewood
Tuesday-Friday, 10am-6pm
9986 0955
info@becentre.org.au
www.becentre.org.au
What is it?
A special place supporting children and families whose lives have been affected by trauma such as
domestic violence, divorce and separation, bereavement, parental drug and alcohol or mental health
issues, bullying, anxiety or illness. Has unique Play & Creative Therapy programs which offer a safe
environment for children to tell their stories, helping them to make a sense of what is happening on
the inside to restore their trust and build self-confidence and resilience.
Manly Council Adolescent & Family Counselling Service
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
Manly Child Care & Youth Centre, Kangaroo Street, Manly
9976 1486
records@manly.nsw.gov.au
www.manly.nsw.gov.au
What is it?
Provides individual and family counselling, group work programs and information and referrals to
other agencies for young people aged 12-21 years and their families. Addressing issues such as
family relationships, school or work, mental health, drugs and alcohol, violence and sexual identity
and a wide range of other issues. Are able to work with young people alone, with parents alone, or
with parents and young people together.
Community Builders Pittwater – Relationships Australia
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
c/- MWP Community Aid, 3 Gondola Road, North Narrabeen
Tuesday-Friday, by appointment
1300 734 120
cbpittwater@ransw.org.au
www.nsw.relationships.org.au
What is it?
Provides community information and can connect you with local services and groups. Programs
include parenting courses, social support groups including walking groups for women,
intergenerational programs connecting seniors with families, youth programs and community events.
©
May 2013
33
Survival story – 'All the Single Parents'
I've made a pitch to Beyoncé for her next single: 'All the Single Parents'.
'All the single parents ... all the single parents ... now put your hands up'.
There'd be a lotta hands. And they'd probably be tired.
These days, single parenthood is frequently an outcome of divorce, but it can also be a result of
widowhood, choice, or an absentee parent. Regardless of how some arrived at single parenthood, it's
important to remember that it often isn't by choice, and the reality (no matter the cause) is that the
person shoulders double the burden in raising a child.
In celebration of Single Parents' Day, I decided to offer advice on what I find critical to the role of
being a single primary caregiver, something it took me a while to learn myself: How to take care of
yourself. Because a single parent doesn't have a partner, there is usually no other person highly
involved in your daily life looking out for your health and well-being. Guess who has to be that
person? That's right, you.
For me, single parenthood is not something I ever envisioned or desired for myself, to put it mildly.
But in the interest of self-respect and self-preservation, circumstances in my marriage made it
impossible for me to stay in it. So, I have raised my son on my own since he was about four months
old.
I learned the hard way that if I took on too much (easy to do as a single parent), I would burn out. I
learned the hard way that no one was going to look out for me but me. My son was too young to tell
me to take it easy. My friends and family weren't in my daily life enough to tell me to put down the
laundry basket or put away the computer and take a nap.
But I am convinced now more than ever that taking care of yourself is a critical thing to learn as a
single parent – as important as taking care of your child. Because we're the ones steering the ship.
Without us, it all falls apart. It's like the airplane oxygen mask analogy – you must put on your own
before you can help someone else with his or hers.
Think of it this way: You have a choice between two caregivers to hire to watch your child. One
appears stressed, irritable, doesn't look healthy, and seems unhappy with life. The other appears well
rested, healthy, calm and fulfilled. Which would you hire?
That caregiver is you. Both you and your child will benefit from a parent who looks more like the latter
picture. Once I started learning to take care of myself, my life did a 180 and I turned from something
like the former picture to the latter.
This post is dedicated not only to the single parents out there, but also to the mums and caregivers
who need to take better care of themselves (I suspect there are a few!).
1. Know Your Limit
You are human. That means you have limits. You are not limitless in your capacity, although some
days it can feel like life needs you to be that way. Identify your limit or warning sign that indicates you
need to stop, get help, or change something. Mine was when I was miserable and in tears sobbing at
the end of a day, barely able to look at my son because I was so tired and frustrated. Yours might be
constantly blowing up and yelling, or feeling depressed and apathetic, or not having time to see your
friends or have fun. Just get familiar with the concept of a 'limit' and be aware of when you have
reached it.
2. Get Help
We need to get better about asking for help. Ask for help whenever you can. Ask friends, family,
church and community members. Heck, ask a stranger to help you hold a bag as you're struggling
with your child and the stroller. If you wait around for someone to offer to help, you may be waiting a
long time (and get angry in the process). Identify the things you need most help with (laundry,
watching your child, driving to appointments) and ask for specific and concrete assistance. If you can
©
May 2013
34
afford it, hire help. You are a better and wiser, not lesser, mother for getting help. And you may not
always get it when you ask, or it may not come exactly the way you wanted, but it will get easier and
better with time. That's right, help-getting is an art, one that every single parent needs to practice.
3. Forget What Everyone Else is Doing
This is really important. This piece of advice saved me. One of the reasons I almost had a
breakdown during the early years of raising my son is because I was worried what other people would
think if I had all this hired help. I also compared myself to my friends who were mums. I seemed to
forget that none of them were single mums. I also forgot that none of them had children with major
medical and developmental needs. And that I had no break since my son's father did not see him
regularly. And that I had no family nearby. Insanity of all insanities, I even worried what my friends
without kids would think of me. It wasn't until I had too many breakdowns like in #1 that I realised it
was self-preservation time. I stopped caring what others thought. I got some help every single day of
the week. It saved me. My life went from misery to feeling manageable and then even joyful (at first I
had to get over the guilt of leaving my son so I would linger around the house even when someone
was there – until the sitter finally told me to get out of the house!).
The thing is, even if there was another single mum with a similar situation, it wouldn't be exactly mine,
because no situation is exactly alike, and we'd be different people. Our needs and buttons and
switches would be different. She might not need help every day (I really need my space to have
energy) but maybe would have wanted every meal cooked for her, or a getaway once a month. The
bottom line is that you have a responsibility to you and your child to carve out a situation that works
best for your family – and that starts with closing your ears to outside voices, and listening to your
own.
4. Don't Neglect Your Health
My son has special needs, so it's easy to put his health needs first. There are countless doctors'
appointments, medical procedures, supplements. My health and my routine visits can seem less
important or secondary. But they're really primary, because if something happened to me, and I
wasn't able to care for him, he would be in a tough situation. Your eating well, sleeping, exercising,
and being emotionally healthy are some of the best investments you can make in your child's future.
Value your own health and well-being as much as you do your child's.
5. Be as Proactive About Your Joy as You are About Your Child's
Your child loves ice cream, or balloons, or Elmo. How much time goes by before you give her/him
something that delights her/him? How much time goes by before you treat yourself to something that
delights you? Sure, we're not children, we have responsibilities, and we don't need to be attending a
24/7 birthday party. But if you are not proactive about your own joy, only looking out for your child's,
one day you will look up and it will be hard to find again. You may have forgotten how to be happy.
Do one thing each day that gives you joy – and tell your kids why you do it, and why it makes you
happy. Children pick up on their caregiver's emotions more than we realize – and your happiness will
do double duty for your child.
6. Hold on to Your Dreams
Finally, I wanted to say this: You matter. Your children may be the centre of your universe, but it
doesn't mean that you have to disappear to give them everything they need. In fact, I would argue
that your having an identity is a gift that they need. As a single parent, you are modelling to your child
how to be an individual in this world. While you may make sacrifices for your child, it's important to
still hold on to the things that delight you, inspire you, and make you who you are. Make time for
hobbies. Spend money on yourself, not just your kids. And don't give up on the big dreams either, of
a career that was stalled to raise your kids, or a vacation or lifestyle you've always wanted. You can
raise your child and pursue your dreams at the same time. Those dreams make us who we are...
and I venture to say, you may one day have them.
“I am a woman in progress. I’m just trying like everyone else. I try
to take every conflict and experience and learn from it.”
Oprah Winfrey
©
May 2013
35
Financial help
Centrepay
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Web:
136 150
http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/services/centrelink/centrepay
What is it?
A free service for customers to pay bills as regular deductions from their Centrelink payments.
Advance Payment Scheme
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Web:
136 150
http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/enablers/advance-payment
What is it?
Provides lump sum payments in advance from future Centrelink payments. The advance must be
repaid, as it is essentially an interest-free loan. The advance amount varies depending on the type of
payment you receive. The advance is repaid through fortnightly deductions from the pension or
allowance. To be eligible, the beneficiary must demonstrate that they can repay the advance and still
have enough money for day-to-day expenses.
No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS)
Contact:
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
St Vincent de Paul, Brookvale
638 Pittwater Road, Brookvale
Monday-Friday, 9am-4.30pm
9905 0424
nb.manager@vinnies.org.au or sue.boek@vinnies.org.au
www.nilsnsw.org.au
What is it?
May lend up to $1,000 for essential goods and services. This may include, but is not limited to,
household white goods, medical bills, car expenses and other household appliances. Repayments
are generally around $30 per fortnight.
©
May 2013
36
Dress for Success Sydney
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Email:
Web:
132 Marrickville Road, Marrickville
Saturday, 10am-1pm
1800 773 456
info@dfssydney.org
www.dressforsuccess.org
What is it?
Outfits disadvantaged women, free of charge, in high-quality professional attire and provides practical
advice in preparation for job interviews. Dress for Success improves the employability of
disadvantaged women by increasing confidence and restoring dignity. Also, offers practical and
financial help and support.
WorkVentures Ltd
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Web:
Level 13, 80 Mount Street, North Sydney
8907 3300 or 1800 112 205 (sales centre)
www.workventures.com.au
What is it?
Sells quality refurbished computers and laptops to people receiving Centrelink benefits or holding a
Centrelink Concession Card.
©
May 2013
37
TAFE success story
This year, 2013, the TAFE Northern Beaches Campus implemented a program for single and teenage
parents. The aim of the program was to improve the job readiness of single and teenage parents who
receive the Single Parenting Payment or those who have been switched to Newstart Allowance. The
Northern Sydney Institute has been funded to provide guaranteed places in training courses and extra
educational support for all eligible single parents who meet course requirements. As part of the
program, students receive mentoring, assistance with job seeking, plus a series of workshops on job
skills, personal presentation, parenting and life skills.
The students are enrolled in a range of courses from full-time diplomas to a Year 10 equivalent. Free
tuition is available in the Learning Centre and free tuition is also available in spelling, maths, job skills
and basic computing for eligible students. TAFE provides the opportunity for these students to study
flexibly or full-time and offers support throughout. This allows students, who are juggling single
parenting and work/study, with a chance to improve their skills and provide a better life for themselves
and their children.
As the single parent coordinator, I have found the program to be a resounding success. Regular
meetings where we shared sandwiches and coffee, swapped ideas on workshops and coping skills,
shared stories and experiences culminated in friendships and input and sponsorship of this Guide to
assist other sole parents.
The students were an inspiration to me. They empathised and supported other group members and
in sharing their often difficult experiences, felt less alone and more determined to move on. I was
inspired by the way they juggled parenting, work and study and their fierce love of their children and
determination to do the best for them. However, like all of us who have been through difficult life
experiences, the students were eager to re-establish their self-esteem and to find a stronger identity.
As a single parent, many faced new life skills that they had to master such as finance, home and car
repairs, etc.
According to their suggestions, I organised these workshops:
•
work skills
•
resumes (delivered by Careers Connect)
•
interview skills
•
SMS Lighthouse – Single Mums Support (delivered by Josie Parata)
•
self-esteem, assertiveness and communication skills (delivered by Relationships Australia)
•
professional advice on image, grooming and presentation in the workplace (delivered by Maria
Cuci)
•
hair workshop (delivered by Northern Beaches TAFE)
•
beauty workshop (delivered by Northern Beaches TAFE)
•
basic car maintenance (delivered by Northern Beaches TAFE)
•
basic home maintenance (delivered by Northern Beaches TAFE)
•
healthy eating-tips for time-poor mums with kids (delivered by Northern Beaches TAFE)
•
tips from career counsellors and TAFE work placement officer (delivered by Northern Beaches
TAFE)
Thus, I believe that TAFE not only provides a fantastic range of courses, with a range of delivery
options, but it can be a catalyst for a whole new outlook.
For further information about courses offered at Northern Beaches TAFE, please ring 131 674 or visit
the website www.nsi.tafensw.edu.au. Appointments can be made with the career counsellors, Kim
Whyte and Verena Rawling on 9941 5521.
Merelyn Langley
Co-ordinator
TAFE Teenage & Single Parents' Program
©
May 2013
38
Benefits available from Department of Human
Resources (formerly Centrelink)
Address:
Hours:
Tel:
Web:
136 150
http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/information/centrelink-website
Types of payments (as at March 2013)
Payment type
How much?
•
Baby Bonus
•
Parenting Payment
•
•
•
Newstart Allowance
You can be paid $5,000 per eligible child in thirteen fortnightly instalments (you will receive a higher first
instalment of $846.20 and twelve fortnightly instalments of $346.15); or
If your baby has died or was stillborn, you may ask for your Baby Bonus to be paid in a lump sum instead
of fortnightly instalments.
If you are partnered, the maximum fortnightly payment is $444.70.
If you are partnered, but separated because of illness, respite care, or prison, the maximum fortnightly
payment is $533.
If you are single, the maximum fortnightly payment is $663.70, which includes the Pension Supplement
basic amount.
If you are:
Your maximum fortnightly payment is:
Single, no children
$492.60
Singe, with a dependant child or children
$533.00
Single, aged 60 or over, after nine continuous months on payment
$533.00
Partnered (each)
$444.70
Single principal carer granted exemption for foster caring/relative
$663.70
(non-parent)/caring under a court order/home schooling/distance
education/large family
Family Tax Benefit
(Part A)
For each child
Per fortnight
0-12
$169.68
13-15
$220.64
16-19, secondary student
$220.64
16-17, having completed secondary study
$54.32
In an approved care organisation
0-19
$54.32
Approved care organisations provide residential care for young people - for example, for young people who
are homeless, are refugees, or have a disability.
Family Tax Benefit
(Part B)
Age of youngest child
Under 5
5-18
Schoolkids Bonus
Rent assistance
Child Care Rebate
Each fortnight
$144.34
$100.66
Each year
$4,117.20
$2,978.40
Eligible families will receive:
• two instalments of $205 for each child in primary school - a total of $410 each year
• two instalments of $410 for each child in secondary school - a total of $820 each year
If you share the care of your child with another person, you will receive a percentage of this payment. This
will be based on the percentage of Family Tax Benefit you receive for the child.
If you have dependent children
Family situation
Max. payment
No payment if
Max. payment if fortnightly
per fortnight
fortnightly rent is
rent is more than
less than
Single, 1 or 2 children
$141.82
$141.40
$330.49
Single, 3 or more children
$160.44
$141.40
$355.32
Couple, 1 or 2 children
$141.82
$209.30
$398.39
Couple, 3 or more children
$160.44
$209.30
$423.22
The maximum amount of Child Care Rebate you may receive per child per financial year depends on the year
you are eligible for and on your out-of-pocket expenses. Out-of-pocket expenses are total childcare fees less
the amount of any Child Care Benefit and Jobs, Education and Training Child Care Fee Assistance that you
may be eligible for. The amount of Child Care Rebate is based on 50% of your out-of-pocket expenses.
Financial year
Maximum rebate
2011-12
$7,500
2010-11
$7,941
2009-10
$7,778
©
May 2013
39
Payment type
How much?
Financial year
2008-09
Pensioner
Concession Card
Pensioner Education
Supplement
Carer Allowance
Maximum rebate
$7,500
A Pensioner Concession Card entitles you to reduced-cost medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits
Scheme (PBS) (usually they cost about $5).
You may also be entitled to various concessions from the Australian Government. These could include:
• bulk-billing for doctor's appointments (this is your doctor's decision)
• more refunds for medical expenses through the Medicare Safety Net
• assistance with hearing services through the Office of Hearing Services
• discounted mail redirection through Australia Post
Note: You may get some of these Australian Government concessions for a dependent child.
You may also be entitled to various concessions from State and Territory governments and local councils these could include:
• reductions on property and water rates
• reductions on phone bills
• reductions on energy bills
• reduced fares on public transport
• reductions on motor vehicle registration
• free rail journeys
• discounted entry to certain events
Note: Pensioner Concession Card concessions are different in each State and Territory and vary between
local councils.
An approved student who is:
$62.40 An approved student who is:
$31.20
• studying full time or
• studying full time or
• studying at least a 25% study load and
• studying at least a 25% study load and
receiving:
receiving:
o Disability Support Pension
o Disability Support Pension
o Invalidity Service Pension or
o Invalidity Service Pension or
o War Widow/er Pension and Invalidity
o War Widow/er Pension and Invalidity
Income
Income
o Support Supplement (and has a dependent
o Support Supplement (and has a dependent
child under 16) or
child under 16) or
• studying at least a 50% study load and is:
• studying at least a 50% study load and is:
o a single parent
o a single parent
o a carer or a person with a substantial
o a carer or a person with a substantial
disability (not receiving a payment listed
disability (not receiving a payment listed
above) or
above) or
o an eligible student receiving Newstart
o an eligible student receiving Newstart
Allowance or Youth Allowance
Allowance or Youth Allowance.
Carer Allowance (caring for a person 16 years or over)
• The payment rate of Carer Allowance (caring for a person 16 years or over) is $115.40 per fortnight.
• If you are receiving a Carer Allowance payment on 1 July each year, you will also receive an annual Carer
Supplement of up to $600 for each person in your care who qualifies you for Carer Allowance.
Carer Allowance (caring for a child under 16 years)
The payment rate of Carer Allowance (caring for a child under 16 years) is either:
• a fortnightly payment of $115.40 and a Health Care Card for the child or
• a Health Care Card for the child.
Which of these you receive depends on the child’s care needs.
If you are receiving a Carer Allowance (caring for a child under 16 years) payment on 1 July each year, you
are also paid an annual:
• Child Disability Assistance Payment of up to $1,000 to help you with the costs of caring for a child with a
disability and
• Carer Supplement of up to $600 for each child in your care who qualifies you for Carer Allowance.
©
May 2013
40
References
CSL CartoonStock, 2013, CartoonStock Ltd, viewed 13 March 2013,
http://www.cartoonstock.com/directory/s/single_parents.asp.
iVillage Canada, 2013, The iVillage LLC, viewed 13 March 2013, http://www.ivillage.ca/parenting/divorce-single-parents/singlemom-quotes.
Lin, Maria, Huff Post Parents, 23 March 2012, 'The Single Parent's Guide to Taking Care of Yourself', Huffington Post,
11 March 2013, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/maria-lin/single-parents-day_b_1367535.html.
Live Life Happy, 2011, Live Life Quotes, Beautiful Quotes, Love Life Quotes, Live Life Happy, viewed 15 April 2013,
http://www.livelifehappy.com/.
Dave's Words of Wisdom, 2013, Daveswordsofwisdom, viewed 10 April 2013, http://daves-words-of-wisdom.blogspot.co.uk/.
Suggested reading
The Singe Parent Bible
Web:
www.singleparentbible.com.au
What is it?
On-line magazine with valuable articles on every aspect of being a sole parent.
Manly Daily newspaper
Web:
www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/northern-beaches
What is it?
Has two special sections on Saturday called Noticeboard and What's On where you can find out what activities are running in
the local area for the coming week.
Saturday Daily Telegraph newspaper
Web:
www.dailytelegraph.com.au
What is it?
Has a special lift-out section called Best Weekend where you can find out what activities are running in Sydney for the coming
week.
Sydney's Child magazine
Web:
www.webchild.com
What is it?
Community stories, resources, information on schools, party guide, performing arts, and also dealing with issues on pregnancy,
health, family needs, what's on, shopping, competitions, forums and other magazines.
Best for Kids
Web:
www.bestforkids.org.au
What is it?
Provides information and resources on family law in Australia for children, parents and anyone else who wants or needs to
know about it, including grandparents.
“Magic is believing in yourself. If you can do that, you can make
anything happen.”
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, 1749 – 1832
©
May 2013
41
Proudly sponsored by:
Coming soon ...
Our website http://soleparentsurvivorguide.weebly.com
“A house is made of walls and beams; a home is built with love
and dreams.”
Dr. William A Ward, 1921 – 1994
©
May 2013

SURVIVOR GUIDE for SOLE PARENTS

Transcription

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